Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Master’s Study in the UK for Developing Countries 

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026: Overview

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship supports outstanding students from eligible Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the UK. Funded jointly by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and UK universities, the programme develops future leaders who will return home with the skills needed to drive national growth and sustainable development.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026: Eligibility

To qualify, applicants must:
– Be citizens or recognised refugees from eligible Commonwealth countries and permanently resident there.
– Be available to begin studies in September/October 2026.
– Hold at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree, or a 2:2 with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
– Not have studied or worked in a high-income country for more than one academic year.
– Be genuinely unable to afford UK study without the scholarship.
– Submit all required documents in the correct format.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026: Benefits

Scholars receive full financial support, including:
– Return airfare to and from the UK
– Full tuition fees
– Monthly stipend (£1,452 or £1,781 for London universities)
– Warm clothing allowance
– Thesis and study-travel grants
– Contribution for mandatory TB tests
– Child allowance for eligible single parents
Additional support is available for scholars who share that they have a disability.

Program Components

– One-year full-time Master’s study at a participating UK university
– Courses selected for strong development relevance
– Support from both the CSC and the hosting institution
– Access to academic networks, industry exposure, and development-focused initiatives

Application Requirements

Applicants must:
– Apply to an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university
– Submit an online application through CSC Central
– Provide degree certificates, transcripts, references, and other requested documents
– Demonstrate development impact and leadership potential in their statements

Selection Criteria

Candidates are evaluated based on:
– Academic merit
– Quality and feasibility of their study plan
– Potential impact on the development of their home country

Application Process

– Apply first to a participating UK university for an approved course
– Complete the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship application through CSC Central
– The university shortlists candidates and forwards them to the CSC
– The CSC confirms final selections and eligibility

Important Dates

– Applications open: 12 November 2025 at 16:30 GMT
– Applications close: 9 December 2025 at 16:00 GMT
– Programme begins: September/October 2026

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Master’s Study in the UK for Developing Countries